Auto trains, how things used to be

A better solution than the steam railcar https://www.photographerslounge.org/f22/contrast-styles-steam-diesel-railcars-16640/ was the auto train, or push pull train where the engine stayed at the same end, or middle as in this case, of the train whatever direction it was going in. The driver could drive the train from the cab at the front with full control of the steam regulator, brakes and whistle. The fireman remained on the locomotive and as well as tending to the fire and the boiler had to set the direction of travel with the reversing lever, and notch up (change gear in effect) if necessary once underway. The trailers had retractable steps to enable them to pick up and drop off passengers from simple wayside halts with ground level platforms, any such stops being request stops.

Here the train is approaching Nappers Crossing, an unguarded crossing named in memory of a lady (Mrs Napper) who acted as crossing guard for a total of 40 years in the commercial days

A passenger boarding the train from the ground level platform at Nappers Halt, having requested the train to stop. The driver is looking back from the driving compartment awaiting the all clear to proceed from the guard

The auto train alongside the River Dart near Totnes in the late afternoon